Updated skatepark design OK’d by BI parks

An updated design for the skatepark at Strawberry Hill Park was approved by Bainbridge Island Metro Parks & Recreation commissioners at their recent meeting.

James Klinedinst with Grindline Skateparks Inc. said public comments were used in the new design.

The new version can hold more skaters, up to eight at a time, and be a world-class facility, he said. Barbecues, seating areas and water fountains have been added. The height of the bowl was adjusted, as was the ferry ledge, and more strawberry elements were added, along with more flow incorporated into the pump track.

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In other parks news: Park Services Division director Dan Hamlin said the concrete has been poured for the Americans with Disabilities ramp at Battle Point for the area adjacent to the observatory where outdoor events are held. The pool at the BI Recreation Center was set to open May 1. And Administrative Division director Amy Swenson said that there were no findings in 2020-2021 audit.

In public comments: Adam Hunt said that Sakai Park must be developed including active use and the community needs the board to act now. Jim Maushan said he supports everything Hunt said, and that the role of government is to bring people together to share costs and build community. Jeffrey O’Donnell expressed the need for an indoor youth sports facility at Sakai. Dan Hardy said there is a need for and interest in a mixed-use indoor facility. Jerry Elfendahl said he is interested in a historical research center and archive at Sakai.

Erin Gardner said it is inexcusable to not provide the facilities children need so they do not miss games and so they can compete fairly. Dave Johnson said that little has changed in terms of facilities for organized sports since 2015 and that the infrastructure for kids on BI needs to be better.

Susan Oblak said tennis players are advocating for no change to the use of the shared tennis courts at Battle Point Park.